Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 18079-18082 [2017-07076]
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18079
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
Vol. 82, No. 72
Monday, April 17, 2017
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains regulatory documents having general
applicability and legal effect, most of which
are keyed to and codified in the Code of
Federal Regulations, which is published under
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by
the Superintendent of Documents.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2015–7526; Directorate
Identifier 2014–NM–217–AD; Amendment
39–18852; AD 2017–08–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Model A318, A319, A320–211,
–212, –214, –231, –232, and –233
airplanes, and A321 series airplanes.
This AD was prompted by the discovery
of corroded circlips in fuel vent
protectors (FVP) having a certain part
number. This AD requires an inspection
to determine the part number and serial
number of the FVP, and replacement if
necessary; and application of sealant on
certain nuts and bolts of the National
Advisory Committee for Aeronautics
(NACA) duct assembly. We are issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective May 22,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of May 22, 2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1
Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707
Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5
61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
Internet https://www.airbus.com. You
may view this referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
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SUMMARY:
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SW., Renton, WA. For information on
the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also
available on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
7526.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
7526; or in person at the Docket
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
the Docket Office (telephone 800–647–
5527) is Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M–30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405;
fax 425–227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) to
amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD
that would apply to all Airbus Model
A318, A319, A320–211, –212, –214,
–231, –232, and –233 airplanes, and
A321 series airplanes. The SNPRM
published in the Federal Register on
October 21, 2016 (81 FR 72748) (‘‘the
SNPRM’’). We preceded the SNPRM
with a notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM) that published in the Federal
Register on December 23, 2015 (80 FR
79742) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The NPRM
proposed to require an inspection to
determine the part number and serial
number of the FVP, and replacement if
necessary. The NPRM was prompted by
the discovery of corroded circlips in
FVPs having a certain part number. The
SNPRM proposed to require an
additional action for sealant application
on some nuts and bolts on the NACA
duct assembly, and to provide a grace
period to the compliance time. We are
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issuing this AD to detect and correct
corroded circlips. Such corrosion could
lead to failure of the circlips and
consequent movement of the FVP and
result in a reduction of the flame
protector capability of the FVP
cartridge, which could result in damage
to the airplane in case of lightning
impact or fire on the ground.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued AD 2016–0114, dated
June 15, 2016; corrected June 23, 2016
(referred to after this as the Mandatory
Continuing Airworthiness Information,
or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
condition for all Airbus Model A318,
A319, A320–211, –212, –214, –231,
–232, and –233 airplanes, and A321
series airplanes. The MCAI states:
On each aeroplane wing, a NACA duct
assembly is installed, including a Fuel Vent
Protector (FVP) which is used as flame
arrestor. This FVP is maintained in its NACA
duct assembly by a circlip (also known as Cclip). Following a wing water pressure test,
the FVP is removed and dried with heat.
During an inspection after this test, several
circlips were reported to be discoloured.
Investigation revealed that a batch of circlips
fitted on some FVP Part Number (P/N)
786073–1–0 have an increased risk of
corrosion due to a manufacturing quality
issue.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could lead to circlip failure and
consequent FVP movement, reducing the
flame protector capability of the FVP
cartridge, possibly resulting in damage to the
aeroplane in case of lightning impact or fire
on ground.
Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320–
28–1221, providing instructions for
identification by serial number (s/n) and
removal from service of the affected FVP P/
N 786073–1–0, and EASA issued AD 2014–
0234, later revised, to require those actions
and to implement installation requirements
for the FVP.
After that [EASA] AD was issued, one step
in the FVP re-installation instructions was
identified as missing. Consequently, Airbus
revised SB A320–28–1221 to provide
instructions for sealant installation on some
nuts and bolts on the NACA duct assembly.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
AD 2014–0234R1, which is superseded, and
requires additional work for aeroplanes
already modified in accordance with Airbus
SB A320–28–1221 original issue or Revision
01.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
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18080
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 72 / Monday, April 17, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
7526.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. We
received no comments on the SNPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the
public.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this AD
as proposed except for minor editorial
changes. We have determined that these
minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the SNPRM for
correcting the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the SNPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin
A320–28–1221, Revision 02, dated
January 11, 2016. The service
information describes procedures for
inspecting the FVP to determine the part
number and serial number, replacing
any affected FVP, and applying sealant
to the nuts and bolts of the NACA duct
assembly. This service information is
reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it
through their normal course of business
or by the means identified in the
ADDRESSES section.
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Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 7
airplanes of U.S. registry. We also
estimate that it will take about 19 workhours per product to comply with the
new basic requirements of this AD. The
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
Required parts will cost about $25,640
per product. Based on these figures, we
estimate the cost of this AD on U.S.
operators to be $190,785, or $27,255 per
product.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2017–08–03 Airbus: Amendment 39–18852;
Docket No. FAA–2015–7526; Directorate
Identifier 2014–NM–217–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective May 22, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to the airplanes specified
in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4)
of this AD, certificated in any category, all
manufacturer serial numbers.
(1) Airbus Model A318–111, –112, –121,
and –122 airplanes.
(2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113,
–114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes.
(3) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214,
–231, –232, and –233 airplanes.
(4) Airbus Model A321–111, –112, –131,
–211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by the discovery of
corroded circlips in fuel vent protectors
(FVP) having a certain part number. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct
corroded circlips. Such corrosion could lead
to failure of the circlips and consequent
movement of the FVP and result in a
reduction of the flame protector capability of
the FVP cartridge, which could result in
damage to the airplane in case of lightning
impact or fire on the ground.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Inspection of FVP and Corrective Action
For airplanes having a manufacturer serial
number specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g)
and (i) of this AD: At the time specified in
paragraph (h) of this AD, do an inspection to
determine the part number and serial number
of the FVP. If the FVP has part number (P/
N) 786073–1–0 with a serial number that is
specified in figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i)
of this AD, and the FVP is not marked ‘‘Amdt
B,’’ replace the FVP with a serviceable part,
at the time specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
28–1221, Revision 02, dated January 11,
2016. A review of airplane maintenance
records is acceptable in lieu of this
inspection if the part number and serial
number of the FVP can be conclusively
determined from that review.
FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPHS (g) AND (i) OF THIS AD—AFFECTED AIRPLANE MANUFACTURER SERIAL NUMBERS
5438
5441
5444
5445
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5463
5464
5469
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through
through
through
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inclusive
inclusive
inclusive
inclusive
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5536
5539
5541
5544
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18081
FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPHS (g) AND (i) OF THIS AD—AFFECTED AIRPLANE MANUFACTURER SERIAL NUMBERS—Continued
5447
5457
5459
5460
5473 through 5478 inclusive
5481
5482
5483
5517
5518
5520 through 5527 inclusive
5530
5547
5551
5553
5556
FIGURE 2 TO PARAGRAPHS (g) AND (i) OF THIS AD—AFFECTED SERIAL NUMBERS FOR PART NUMBER 786073–1–0
[Manufactured during August 2012]
Serial No. 786073IN0xxxx (xxxx indicates the last four digits)
3752
3753
3754
3755
3756
3757
3758
3759
3760
3761
3787
3788
3810
3812
3814
3817
3819
3820
3821
3826
3827
3829
3830
3833
3834
3836
3839
3840
3848
3849
3850
3851
3853
3859
3860
3867
3868
3871
3874
3877
3878
3882
3893
3897
3898
3899
3900
3901
3904
3905
3906
3907
3908
3910
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(h) Compliance Times for the Requirements
of Paragraph (g) of This AD
Do the actions required by paragraph (g) of
this AD at the earliest of the times specified
in paragraphs (h)(1), (h)(2), and (h)(3) of this
AD, or within 30 days after the effective date
of this AD, whichever occurs later.
(1) Before the accumulation of 5,000 total
flight cycles after the date of manufacture of
the airplane.
(2) Before the accumulation of 7,500 total
flight hours after the date of manufacture of
the airplane.
(3) Within 30 months after the date of
manufacture of the airplane.
(i) Exclusion From Actions Required by
Paragraph (g) of This AD
An airplane that does not have a
manufacturer serial number specified in
figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD
is excluded from the requirements of
paragraph (g) of this AD, provided that a FVP
having P/N 786073–1–0 with a serial number
specified in figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i)
of this AD has not been installed on that
airplane after July 2012. If a FVP having P/
N 786073–1–0 with a serial number specified
in figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of this
AD is installed, or the serial number cannot
be identified: Within 12 months after the
effective date of this AD, replace the FVP
with a serviceable part, in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320–28–1221, Revision 02,
dated January 11, 2016. A review of airplane
maintenance records is acceptable if it can be
conclusively determined from that review
that a FVP having a serial number specified
in figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of this
AD has not been installed on that airplane
after July 2012.
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3914
3922
3925
3927
3930
3937
3938
3940
3945
3946
3947
3948
3951
3961
3962
3964
3965
(j) Parts Installation Limitation
As of the effective date of this AD, a FVP
having P/N 786073–1–0 and a serial number
listed in figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of
this AD may be installed on any airplane,
provided the FVP is marked with ‘‘Amdt B.’’
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149.
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
actions from a manufacturer, the action must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
the European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
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3966
3967
3969
3971
3972
3977
3978
3980
3981
3982
3983
3984
3985
3986
3987
3996
3997
4009
4010
4011
4013
4017
4019
4023
4024
4025
4026
4039
4048
4065
4066
4068
4070
4184
4187
None
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
service information contains procedures or
tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
not identified as RC are recommended. Those
procedures and tests that are not identified
as RC may be deviated from using accepted
methods in accordance with the operator’s
maintenance or inspection program without
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
the procedures and tests identified as RC can
be done and the airplane can be put back in
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
changes to procedures or tests identified as
RC require approval of an AMOC.
(l) Related Information
Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2016–0114, dated
June 15, 2016; corrected June 23, 2016; for
related information. This MCAI may be
found in the AD docket on the Internet at
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–7526.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–28–1221,
Revision 02, dated January 11, 2016.
(ii) Reserved.
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(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@
airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on March
31, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–07076 Filed 4–14–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9167; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NE–20–AD; Amendment 39–
18855; AD 2017–08–06]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; General
Electric Company Turbofan Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
General Electric Company (GE) GE90
turbofan engines. This AD was
prompted by a report of an engine and
airplane fire. This AD requires replacing
affected fuel/oil lube/servo coolers
(‘‘main fuel oil heat exchangers’’) with
a part eligible for installation. We are
issuing this AD to correct the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective May 22,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of May 22, 2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
General Electric Company, GE-Aviation,
Room 285, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati,
OH 45215, phone: 513–552–3272; email:
aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com. You may
view this referenced service information
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SUMMARY:
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at the FAA, You may view this service
information at the FAA, Engine &
Propeller Directorate, 1200 District
Avenue, Burlington, MA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 781–238–7125.
It is also available on the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov by searching
for and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
9167.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
9167; or in person at the Docket
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The address for the
Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is
Document Management Facility, U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John
Frost, Aerospace Engineer, Engine
Certification Office, FAA, 1200 District
Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone:
781–238–7756; fax: 781–238–7199;
email: john.frost@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain GE GE90 turbofan
engines. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on December 7, 2016
(81 FR 88145) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The
NPRM was prompted by a report of an
engine and airplane fire. The NPRM
proposed to require replacing affected
fuel/oil lube/servo coolers (‘‘main fuel
oil heat exchangers’’) with a part eligible
for installation. We are issuing this AD
to prevent failure of a main fuel oil heat
exchanger, which could result in an
engine fire.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. The
following presents the comments
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Request To Revise Applicability
Reference
All Nippon Airways, MTU
Maintenance Hannover GmbH (MTU),
and Air New Zealand commented that
this AD should list all vendor part
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numbers referenced in GE Service
Bulletin (SB) GE90–100 S/B 79–0034,
Revision 03, dated August 5, 2016. This
would ensure that the applicability of
the AD is not misinterpreted.
We agree. We changed this AD by
adding a reference in the Applicability
paragraph to the respective vendor
number after the part number.
Request To Clarify Tracking of
Accomplishment of AD
MTU commented that clarification of
the accomplishment of this AD is
needed because GE SB GE90–100 S/B
79–0034, Revision 03, dated August 5,
2016, requires marking repaired parts
with the suffix ‘‘A’’ at the end of the
serial number but the proposed AD does
not. MTU indicated that ‘‘GE fleet
highlites’’ note that the suffix is not part
of the actual serial number and must not
appear on EASA or FAA documents.
We disagree. Although we are not
requiring that parts be marked with the
suffix ‘‘A’’ to reflect compliance with
this AD, these parts are typically
marked after repair per the requirements
of GE SB GE90–100 S/B 79–0034.
Operators are free, however, to devise
an alternate tracking system, i.e. through
part markings and/or records, to show
that the part has been repaired and is
eligible for installation. We did not
change this AD.
Request To Reference Latest Service
Bulletin
MTU requested that we change the
reference to GE SB GE90–100 S/B 79–
0034, Revision 03, dated August 5,
2016, to the ‘‘latest version’’ of this SB.
We disagree. We cannot require
compliance to a document that does not
exist. We note that operators may
submit a request for an alternate method
of compliance if this SB is revised after
the publication of this AD. We did not
change this AD.
Request To Revise References to Main
Heat Exchanger
GE requested that references in the
AD to the ‘‘main heat exchanger’’ be
changed to the ‘‘main fuel oil heat
exchanger’’ and/or the ‘‘MFOHE.’’ GE
indicated that ‘‘main fuel oil heat
exchanger’’ is the term that it uses in
communications with its operators.
We agree. We changed references in
this AD from ‘‘main heat exchanger’’ to
‘‘main fuel oil heat exchanger.’’
Request To Revise Description of
Incident and Unsafe Condition
Statement
GE requested that we revise the
discussion in the NPRM of the cause of
the incident and the unsafe condition
E:\FR\FM\17APR1.SGM
17APR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 72 (Monday, April 17, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 18079-18082]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-07076]
========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 72 / Monday, April 17, 2017 / Rules
and Regulations
[[Page 18079]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2015-7526; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-217-AD;
Amendment 39-18852; AD 2017-08-03]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Model A318, A319, A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233
airplanes, and A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by the
discovery of corroded circlips in fuel vent protectors (FVP) having a
certain part number. This AD requires an inspection to determine the
part number and serial number of the FVP, and replacement if necessary;
and application of sealant on certain nuts and bolts of the National
Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) duct assembly. We are issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective May 22, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 22,
2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet
https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
7526.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
7526; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone
800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405;
fax 425-227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) to
amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus
Model A318, A319, A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes,
and A321 series airplanes. The SNPRM published in the Federal Register
on October 21, 2016 (81 FR 72748) (``the SNPRM''). We preceded the
SNPRM with a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that published in the
Federal Register on December 23, 2015 (80 FR 79742) (``the NPRM''). The
NPRM proposed to require an inspection to determine the part number and
serial number of the FVP, and replacement if necessary. The NPRM was
prompted by the discovery of corroded circlips in FVPs having a certain
part number. The SNPRM proposed to require an additional action for
sealant application on some nuts and bolts on the NACA duct assembly,
and to provide a grace period to the compliance time. We are issuing
this AD to detect and correct corroded circlips. Such corrosion could
lead to failure of the circlips and consequent movement of the FVP and
result in a reduction of the flame protector capability of the FVP
cartridge, which could result in damage to the airplane in case of
lightning impact or fire on the ground.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued AD 2016-
0114, dated June 15, 2016; corrected June 23, 2016 (referred to after
this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318,
A319, A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes, and A321
series airplanes. The MCAI states:
On each aeroplane wing, a NACA duct assembly is installed,
including a Fuel Vent Protector (FVP) which is used as flame
arrestor. This FVP is maintained in its NACA duct assembly by a
circlip (also known as C-clip). Following a wing water pressure
test, the FVP is removed and dried with heat. During an inspection
after this test, several circlips were reported to be discoloured.
Investigation revealed that a batch of circlips fitted on some FVP
Part Number (P/N) 786073-1-0 have an increased risk of corrosion due
to a manufacturing quality issue.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to
circlip failure and consequent FVP movement, reducing the flame
protector capability of the FVP cartridge, possibly resulting in
damage to the aeroplane in case of lightning impact or fire on
ground.
Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320-28-1221, providing
instructions for identification by serial number (s/n) and removal
from service of the affected FVP P/N 786073-1-0, and EASA issued AD
2014-0234, later revised, to require those actions and to implement
installation requirements for the FVP.
After that [EASA] AD was issued, one step in the FVP re-
installation instructions was identified as missing. Consequently,
Airbus revised SB A320-28-1221 to provide instructions for sealant
installation on some nuts and bolts on the NACA duct assembly.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the
requirements of EASA AD 2014-0234R1, which is superseded, and
requires additional work for aeroplanes already modified in
accordance with Airbus SB A320-28-1221 original issue or Revision
01.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for
[[Page 18080]]
and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-7526.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. We received no comments on the SNPRM or on the determination
of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and
the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
SNPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the SNPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-28-1221, Revision 02, dated
January 11, 2016. The service information describes procedures for
inspecting the FVP to determine the part number and serial number,
replacing any affected FVP, and applying sealant to the nuts and bolts
of the NACA duct assembly. This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties have access to it through
their normal course of business or by the means identified in the
ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 7 airplanes of U.S. registry. We
also estimate that it will take about 19 work-hours per product to
comply with the new basic requirements of this AD. The average labor
rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $25,640 per
product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on
U.S. operators to be $190,785, or $27,255 per product.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2017-08-03 Airbus: Amendment 39-18852; Docket No. FAA-2015-7526;
Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-217-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective May 22, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to the airplanes specified in paragraphs (c)(1),
(c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any category,
all manufacturer serial numbers.
(1) Airbus Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
(2) Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132,
and -133 airplanes.
(3) Airbus Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233
airplanes.
(4) Airbus Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231,
and -232 airplanes.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by the discovery of corroded circlips in
fuel vent protectors (FVP) having a certain part number. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct corroded circlips. Such
corrosion could lead to failure of the circlips and consequent
movement of the FVP and result in a reduction of the flame protector
capability of the FVP cartridge, which could result in damage to the
airplane in case of lightning impact or fire on the ground.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Inspection of FVP and Corrective Action
For airplanes having a manufacturer serial number specified in
figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD: At the time specified
in paragraph (h) of this AD, do an inspection to determine the part
number and serial number of the FVP. If the FVP has part number (P/
N) 786073-1-0 with a serial number that is specified in figure 2 to
paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD, and the FVP is not marked ``Amdt
B,'' replace the FVP with a serviceable part, at the time specified
in paragraph (h) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-28-1221, Revision 02,
dated January 11, 2016. A review of airplane maintenance records is
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number and serial
number of the FVP can be conclusively determined from that review.
Figure 1 to Paragraphs (g) and (i) of This AD--Affected Airplane Manufacturer Serial Numbers
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5438 5461 5485 through 5488 inclusive 5536
5441 5463 5490 through 5493 inclusive 5539
5444 5464 5495 through 5505 inclusive 5541
5445 5469 5507 through 5515 inclusive 5544
[[Page 18081]]
5447 5473 through 5478 inclusive 5517 5547
5457 5481 5518 5551
5459 5482 5520 through 5527 inclusive 5553
5460 5483 5530 5556
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Figure 2 to Paragraphs (g) and (i) of This AD--Affected Serial Numbers for Part Number 786073-1-0
[Manufactured during August 2012]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Serial No. 786073IN0xxxx (xxxx indicates the last four digits)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3752 3821 3868 3911 3966 4010
3753 3826 3871 3914 3967 4011
3754 3827 3874 3922 3969 4013
3755 3829 3877 3925 3971 4017
3756 3830 3878 3927 3972 4019
3757 3833 3882 3930 3977 4023
3758 3834 3893 3937 3978 4024
3759 3836 3897 3938 3980 4025
3760 3839 3898 3940 3981 4026
3761 3840 3899 3945 3982 4039
3787 3848 3900 3946 3983 4048
3788 3849 3901 3947 3984 4065
3810 3850 3904 3948 3985 4066
3812 3851 3905 3951 3986 4068
3814 3853 3906 3961 3987 4070
3817 3859 3907 3962 3996 4184
3819 3860 3908 3964 3997 4187
3820 3867 3910 3965 4009 None
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(h) Compliance Times for the Requirements of Paragraph (g) of This AD
Do the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD at the
earliest of the times specified in paragraphs (h)(1), (h)(2), and
(h)(3) of this AD, or within 30 days after the effective date of
this AD, whichever occurs later.
(1) Before the accumulation of 5,000 total flight cycles after
the date of manufacture of the airplane.
(2) Before the accumulation of 7,500 total flight hours after
the date of manufacture of the airplane.
(3) Within 30 months after the date of manufacture of the
airplane.
(i) Exclusion From Actions Required by Paragraph (g) of This AD
An airplane that does not have a manufacturer serial number
specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD is
excluded from the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, provided
that a FVP having P/N 786073-1-0 with a serial number specified in
figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD has not been installed
on that airplane after July 2012. If a FVP having P/N 786073-1-0
with a serial number specified in figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i)
of this AD is installed, or the serial number cannot be identified:
Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, replace the
FVP with a serviceable part, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-28-1221, Revision 02,
dated January 11, 2016. A review of airplane maintenance records is
acceptable if it can be conclusively determined from that review
that a FVP having a serial number specified in figure 2 to
paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD has not been installed on that
airplane after July 2012.
(j) Parts Installation Limitation
As of the effective date of this AD, a FVP having P/N 786073-1-0
and a serial number listed in figure 2 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of
this AD may be installed on any airplane, provided the FVP is marked
with ``Amdt B.''
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay
Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be
emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended.
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.
(l) Related Information
Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI)
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2016-0114, dated June 15, 2016;
corrected June 23, 2016; for related information. This MCAI may be
found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-7526.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-28-1221, Revision 02, dated
January 11, 2016.
(ii) Reserved.
[[Page 18082]]
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5
61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call
425-227-1221.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 31, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-07076 Filed 4-14-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
